Dompu

History

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History of Dompu Regency: Traces of Ancient Kingdoms in the Heart of Sumbawa Island

Origins and Golden Age of the Dompu Kingdom

Dompu, located in the southern part of the Sanggar Peninsula, Sumbawa Island, has very old and prestigious historical roots. Etymologically, the name "Dompu" is believed to derive from the words "Dom" (World) and "Pu" (Center), reflecting its strategic position in the past. Based on historical records and oral traditions, the Dompu Kingdom was one of the four major kingdoms on Sumbawa Island (along with Bima, Tambora, and Sanggar). Dompu's glory is recorded in the Negarakertagama book by Empu Prapanca, which mentions that this region was coveted by the Majapahit Kingdom in its mission to unify the archipelago under Gadjah Mada's Sumpah Palapa in the 14th century. The conquest of Dompu by Majapahit forces was led by Commander Nala in 1357, making it a significant point of Javanese influence in eastern Indonesia.

Colonial Era and the Devastating Disaster of 1815

Dompu's socio-political life underwent drastic changes when the Dutch colonialists began to establish their power through the Lange Contract. However, the most transformative event in Dompu's history was not war, but a natural disaster. The eruption of Mount Tambora in April 1815 devastated the Dompu Kingdom. Volcanic ash and pyroclastic flows destroyed agricultural land and wiped out a large portion of the population. As a result of this disaster, the governmental structure was temporarily weakened until it was reorganized under the influence of the Sultanate of Bima for a period. An important figure in Dompu's recovery was Sultan Muhammad Sirajuddin, who strived to revive Dompu's sovereignty from the ruins of destruction post-eruption.

Era of Independence Struggle and National Integration

Entering the 20th century, the spirit of nationalism burned brightly in Dompu. The local community resisted the tax system (belasting) imposed by the Dutch. After the proclamation of August 17, 1945, Dompu declared its loyalty to the Republic of Indonesia. Through Law Number 69 of 1958, Dompu was officially designated as a Second Level Region under the Province of West Nusa Tenggara. This integration solidified Dompu's role on the national political map, transforming from a sultanate into a modern, democratic administration.

Cultural Heritage and Modern Development

Geographically, Dompu has unique characteristics with a vast coastal area in the south, such as Hu'u Beach, which is now world-renowned. The historical heritage preserved to this day includes the "Muna Pa'a" tradition (Dompu's traditional weaving) and historical sites like the royal cemetery complex of Dompu kings in Sigi. One unique historical fact is the existence of Mount Doroncanga as a silent witness to the wild horse and cattle ranching that has been the local economic identity since the kingdom era.

Today, with an area of 2,284.23 km², Dompu is developing into an agricultural center, especially through the "Pijar" program (Cattle, Corn, and Seaweed). The transformation from a respected ancient kingdom of Majapahit to a modern regency bordering Bima Regency, Sumbawa Regency, and the Flores Sea demonstrates the resilience of the Dompu people in preserving their cultural identity amidst globalization.

Geography

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Geographical Profile of Dompu Regency: Maritime Heart of West Nusa Tenggara

Dompu Regency is a strategic area located on Sumbawa Island, West Nusa Tenggara Province. With an area of 2,284.23 km², this regency holds the status of an "Epic" region due to its extreme landscape diversity, ranging from volcanic peaks to iconic bay depths. Astronomically, Dompu is located at coordinates between 117°42' and 118°30' East Longitude and 8°06' and 9°05' South Latitude.

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Topography and Landscape

This region has highly varied topographical characteristics. Hills and mountains dominate, accounting for approximately 60% of the total area, while the rest consists of lowlands and coastal areas. One of the most iconic geographical features is the presence of Mount Tambora to the north. Although administratively shared with Bima Regency, it has a significant geological influence on Dompu's fertile soil due to volcanic deposits. In the central part, there is the vast Dompu Valley, surrounded by ranges of hills that feed major rivers like the Laju River and Silo River.

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Coastline and Cardinal Position

The region has a coastline stretching along the Indonesian Sea. Its position is in the southern part of West Nusa Tenggara province, providing direct access to the Indian Ocean. The southern coastal characteristics of Dompu tend to be hilly with steep cliffs and deep bays, such as Cempi Bay, famous as a center for marine activities. Its direct borders with three administrative regions—Bima Regency to the east and north, and Sumbawa Regency to the west—make it a crucial point for land transportation on Sumbawa Island.

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Climate and Weather Patterns

Dompu has a tropical semi-arid climate (Aw) with stark seasonal contrasts. The dry season typically lasts longer (May to October), influenced by dry Australian monsoon winds. Conversely, a short but intense rainy season occurs between December and March. Average air temperatures range from 22°C to 34°C, with higher humidity in the foothills of Mount Tambora compared to the southern coastal areas, which tend to be hotter and drier.

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Natural Resources and Biodiversity

Dompu's natural wealth relies on the agricultural and forestry sectors. Nutrient-rich volcanic soil makes Dompu one of the national corn granaries. In the forestry sector, the region has dry tropical forests that are home to the Timor Deer (Cervus timorensis) and various endemic bird species. Ecologically, Dompu is part of the Wallacea transition zone, rich in unique biodiversity. In addition to agricultural potential, its coastal areas are rich in marine resources, including the potential for seaweed and pearl cultivation in the calm waters of Saleh Bay. In the mineral sector, there is significant potential for copper and gold deposits in the Hu'u area, geologically formed by complex tectonic activity in the southern Sunda-Banda arc.

Culture

Cultural Wealth of Dompu Regency: A Hidden Gem on Sumbawa Island

Dompu, a region of 2,284.23 km² located in the southern part of West Nusa Tenggara Province, is an area with strong and unique cultural characteristics. As a region directly bordering the Indian Ocean to the south and Saleh Bay, Dompu has a blend of agrarian and coastal cultures that shape the identity of the Mbojo people.

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Traditional Customs and Ceremonies

One of the most iconic traditions in Dompu is Pacoa Jara, or traditional horse racing. Unlike modern horse racing, the jockeys in Pacoa Jara are children (young jockeys) who ride horses without saddles. This tradition is not just a sport but a symbol of the courage and skill of Dompu men. Additionally, there is the Peta Kapanca ceremony, a pre-wedding ritual where the bride-to-be's hands are decorated with henna (pacar leaves). This ritual is accompanied by selawat (Islamic praises) and prayers as a symbol of purity and readiness to enter married life.

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Arts and Performances

In performing arts, Dompu has distinctive dances like Tari Buja Kadanda, a war dance depicting the agility of warriors using spears and shields. For public entertainment, the community often holds Gantao, a martial art that combines silat movements with dynamic percussion music. Dompu's traditional music is dominated by instruments such as the Sarone (a wind instrument made from bamboo and lontar leaves), Gendang (drum), and Gong, which produce a distinctive Mbojo ethnic melody.

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Dompu's Culinary Delights

Dompu's cuisine offers bold flavors. A must-try dish is Timbu (Dompu's lemang), cooked in bamboo and usually served during holidays. There is also Uta Mbe’u, a fermented meat dish, and Sate Rentiga with its sharp spice blend. Due to its coastal location, fresh seafood dishes with spicy and sour seasonings are also an inseparable part of the local dining table.

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Traditional Textiles and Attire

Dompu boasts an extraordinary textile heritage in the form of Muna Pa’a (embossed motif weaving). This woven fabric is made with intricate manual techniques, producing geometric motifs rich in philosophical meaning. In daily attire, Dompu women wear Rimpu, a way of dressing using two pieces of sarong fabric (tembe noli) that cover the head to the body, leaving only the face or eyes visible (Rimpu Mpida). This is a harmonious blend of local tradition and Islamic values.

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Language and Religion

The people of Dompu use the Bima Language (Nggahi Mbojo) with a distinct Dompu dialect that differs slightly in intonation from the Bima region. The phrase "Maja Labo Dahu" (Shame and Fear) serves as the primary moral compass; shame if adat (custom) is violated and fear of God. Religious values are deeply ingrained, evident in the celebration of Islamic holidays, which are always marked with vibrant cultural festivals, reinforcing Dompu's identity as a region that upholds adat based on syarak (Islamic law).

Tourism

Exploring Dompu: Exotic Gem in the Heart of Sumbawa Island

Strategically located in the southern part of West Nusa Tenggara Province, Dompu Regency emerges as an "Epic" destination for true adventurers. With an area of 2,284.23 km² and bordering three main regions—Bima Regency to the east and north, and Sumbawa Regency to the west—Dompu offers dramatic coastal landscapes and majestic mountains.

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Natural Wonders and World-Renowned Coastlines

Dompu is home to Hu'u Beach and Lakey Beach, which have long been a mecca for international surfers. Lakey's uniqueness lies in its left-hand breaking waves, making it one of the best surf spots in the world. Beyond the sea, Dompu boasts Mount Tambora, a monument of global geological history whose 1815 eruption altered the world's climate. For hikers, the Doro Ncanga trail offers vast savannas resembling Africa, where wild horses and deer roam freely at the foot of the mountain. Don't miss the refreshing Ncangga Tumbu Waterfall, hidden behind lush tropical forests.

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Cultural Heritage and Historical Sites

Culturally, Dompu holds deep traces of civilization. You can visit the Dompu Kingdom Site to understand the past glory of this region as one of the centers of power in the archipelago. If you're lucky, you might witness the Traditional Horse Racing (Pacoa Jara) attraction involving brave young jockeys. The culture of the Mbojo people in Dompu is deeply imbued with religious values and the characteristic coastal hospitality that will make every visitor feel welcomed like family.

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Culinary Adventure in Dompu

An experience in Dompu is incomplete without tasting the savory Timbu (bamboo rice), usually served during traditional celebrations. For seafood lovers, Sepat—grilled fish served with a fresh sour broth containing eggplant, young mango, and ruku leaves—offers a unique explosion of flavors. Don't forget to try authentic Dompu Wild Horse Milk, known for its high health benefits and a must-have souvenir from the region.

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Outdoor Activities and Accommodation

For adrenaline seekers, off-roading at the foot of Mount Tambora or diving in the clear bay waters are top choices. For comfort, various accommodation options are available, from exclusive surf camps on the shores of Lakey Beach to modest hotels in the city center. The best time to visit is between May and September, when the dry season provides clear blue skies and the most consistent wave conditions for surfing. Dompu is not just a transit destination; it is a point where courage meets pure natural tranquility.

Economy

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Economic Profile of Dompu Regency: A New Epicenter in West Nusa Tenggara

Dompu Regency, located in the southern part of Sumbawa Island, West Nusa Tenggara, is a strategic area of 2,284.23 km² bordering Bima Regency to the east and Sumbawa Regency to the west. As a region with "Epic" status on the regional development map, Dompu is transforming from a traditional agricultural area into a center for processing industries and national superior commodities.

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Agriculture Sector and the "Terpijar" Program

Dompu's economic backbone rests on the agricultural sector, particularly through the flagship "Terpijar" program (Sugar Cane, Cattle, Corn, and Seaweed). Dompu has solidified its position as the largest corn producer in NTB, driven by agricultural mechanization and land availability in areas like Manggelewa District. The presence of feed mills and large-scale corn drying facilities (silos) has created a complete upstream-downstream industrial ecosystem that absorbs thousands of local workers, significantly increasing farmers' per capita income.

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Sugar Industry and Plantations

One of Dompu's economic unique features is the integrated sugar industry through PT Sukses Mantap Sejahtera (SMS) in Pekat. This company manages extensive sugarcane plantations at the foot of Mount Tambora, making it one of the white crystal sugar production centers in Eastern Indonesia. The existence of this industry not only contributes to the Regional Gross Domestic Product (PDRB) but also spurs the growth of the service and transportation sectors in the industrial ring area.

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Maritime and Coastal Economy

With a coastline stretching along the Indonesian Sea, Dompu possesses massive maritime potential. Saleh Bay and the southern waters of Dompu are centers for seaweed cultivation and capture fisheries. This maritime sector contributes foreign exchange through dried seaweed exports. Furthermore, the potential for copper and gold deposits in Hu'u, currently in the exploration phase by PT Sumbawa Timur Mining (STM), is predicted to become a major economic driver in the future, similar in scale to mines in neighboring regions.

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Traditional Crafts and Tourism

In the creative economy sector, Dompu is known for its "Muna Pa'a" traditional weaving crafts and wild horse milk processing. These products serve as souvenir commodities that support the tourism sector, especially in the Lakey Beach area. Lakey is an international surfing destination that significantly contributes to the service, hotel, and culinary sectors, creating new job trends for tour guides and water sports instructors.

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Infrastructure and Regional Development

The local government continues to accelerate the development of inter-provincial road infrastructure and the revitalization of Calabai Port as a logistics gateway. This increased connectivity is crucial for distributing agricultural commodities to markets in Java and Sulawesi. With the integration of agriculture, processing industries, and nature-based tourism, Dompu is now moving to become a strong new economic force in the southern region of West Nusa Tenggara.

Demographics

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Demographic Profile of Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara

Dompu Regency, located in the central part of Sumbawa Island with a cardinal position in the southern region, has unique demographic characteristics as a coastal area of 2,284.23 km². With an "Epic" rarity status in the geospatial context of West Nusa Tenggara, Dompu directly borders Bima Regency to the east and north, and Sumbawa Regency to the west.

Population Size, Density, and Distribution

Based on the latest data, Dompu's population continues to grow steadily, with a total occupancy exceeding 250,000 people. The average population density reaches 110-115 people/km², but its distribution is uneven. The highest population concentration is in Dompu and Woja Districts as centers of economic activity, while southern coastal areas like Hu'u have lower density but are strategically important due to their international surfing tourism potential.

Ethnic Composition and Cultural Diversity

The majority ethnic group is the Mbojo Tribe (Dana Dompu), who have strong ties to the past sultanate traditions. Uniquely, Dompu's ethnic composition is also enriched by transmigrants from Java, Bali, and Lombok who have settled for decades, creating a harmonious cultural assimilation. The Bima language, Dompu dialect, is the primary means of communication, reflecting a resilient local identity.

Age Structure and Population Pyramid

Dompu's population structure is an expansive pyramid, dominated by young and productive age groups (15-64 years). This indicates a significant demographic bonus. The total fertility rate (TFR) trend is starting to be controlled, but the proportion of school-aged population remains high, requiring intensive public facility planning.

Education Level and Literacy

The literacy rate in Dompu has reached over 95%. The local government focuses on increasing the average length of schooling (RLS). Although primary education is widespread, the main challenge remains the distribution of educators in remote areas and improving access to higher education to produce skilled labor in the agricultural and marine sectors.

Urbanization and Migration Dynamics

There is a shift from a purely rural pattern towards semi-urbanization, driven by the trade sector in the city center. Migration patterns in Dompu are heavily influenced by the corn farming sector; during planting and harvesting seasons, there is seasonal labor mobilization from surrounding areas (Bima and Sumbawa). Additionally, there is an outward migration pattern for higher education to major cities like Mataram, Makassar, and Yogyakarta, which later brings back innovation to their home regions.